It’s Mission Impossible time for Arsenal once again in the Champions League.
Giving themselves another last 16 mountain to climb because, hey, that’s the way we roll, Arsenal know that they have to score three and keep a cleansheet (or more if they don’t) if they want to progress to the quarter-finals.
Messing up in the first leg of this round has become something of an Arsenal hallmark, as has heroic failures.
Ultimately, they’ve usually left themselves just too much to do but could they change the pattern this time around?
Here are five reasons why they can make the impossible possible:
Finishing
Monaco may have a stellar defensive record but if it hadn’t been for Olivier Giroud discarding his football boots in the first leg, they would have conceded a hatful.
With a massive point to prove, and in great goalscoring form, he won’t be as wasteful this time.
Arsenal also have 21 different goalscorers this season, more than any other side.
Better
When you look at Arsenal’s results this year, the first leg at the Emirates is something of an anomaly.
Arsenal are playing well, working hard, and defending as a unit (generally). Add to that that they simply cannot play as badly as they did in the first leg and we know we’re in for an improved performance.
Atmosphere
One of the most difficult things about going away in the Champions League is the hostile atmosphere at many of the grounds. That won’t be the case at the Stade Louis II stadium.
Holding only 18,400, the Monaco fans are not exactly known for their vociferous support.
If Arsenal can grab an early goal, we probably won’t even realise they’re there.
Confidence
Arsenal have long been a side that needs to play with confidence for their game to work and that’s something they have in spades at present, especially following their win at Old Trafford in the FA Cup last week.
They know they can go away and get a result, they’ve done it a number of times this season and thrown that particular monkey from their back.
History
History tells us that Arsenal’s task is an impossible one.
History also tells us that records end, miracles happen and Arsenal, every now and then, do something amazing.
Let this be one of those times.